So many people ask “Do I need a Passport?” The quick answer is ‘it depends’. Currently there is legislation that will require enhanced drivers license to fly domestic airlines. Due to implementation setbacks for many states, it has been extended several times to the actual date of mandatory use.

For international travel it has been always required to have a passport to prove your citizenship. Visas are a whole different beast. Can you go to that country is a secondary question you must ask yourself?  The best resource for finding this information is #1. Your travel agent. #2. US State Department. Some countries will simply not allow you to visit. In the presence of Covid concerns many countries have temporary bans that prohibit Americans to come into country without having a travel health visa. More on that in the future.

Cruise Travel:

So if your leaving from an US port and returning to an US port, as of now you can travel with a birth certificate and government issued ID. The problem with this habit is that if you have an emergency while there, you are in a bind. No passport means your way home is in question. The cruise lines will not and cannot wait on you. Getting on a plane without a passport is typically not allowed. Finding a consulate or embassy in the country you are visiting would be a struggle. I always recommend you have a passport if your traveling outside of the US!

The process is fairly easy but it does take some time. There are processes for emergency passport issue that still can take up to 48 hours to process. The best way is be proactive. Now this isn’t cheap but well worth the investment. Simply reach out to your travel professional to help your with this. You can go to the US State Department website and download the forms you will need. You can go to an official passport acceptance station or your local post office. Appointments are required but generally easy to obtain to accommodate your schedule. They are typically 30 minute in length and your done on time. During these visits you must take all your documentation listed on the forms. They will verify your documents and take your fees. Some locations will actually take the photo for you that will be on your ID. I wont post exact prices here because they could change and are dependent on which ID you chose to obtain. They offer books and cards. I recommend the book because it is used and accepted globally. Typically it takes 6-8 weeks to receive your document in the mail. There are express services that cut that time down but those cost extra. Your birth certificate will come back to you in a separate mailing.